The phrase "persistent refusal" means someone consistently saying no or declining to do something even when asked or persuaded multiple times. Full definition
So it is the persistent refusal to repent, and accept God's grace and love that keeps hell going, not His determination to keep sinners there against their will. (rachelheldevans.com)
On the other hand, the majority of Jews refused to accept the Christian kerygma, and in time their persistent refusal became an embarrassment to the church and an apparent refutation of the Christian claim that Jesus was the Messiah. (religion-online.org)
I am refering to Tony's persistent refusal to accept the indisputable evidence, as presented yet again by Nitram, that consistent high investment will ultimately result in league titles. (untold-arsenal.com)